Types of Melanoma

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Melanoma usually appears in locations where the skin receives frequent sun exposure, like the face, neck, shoulders, arms and legs. These melanomas are often linked to ultraviolet (UV) damage and may first appear as a new spot or a change to an existing mole.

There is also melanoma that can develop on parts of the body that are not, or are rarely, exposed to the sunlight. This can include the scalp, under the breasts, buttocks or genitals. Because these areas are less visible during self-checks, melanomas here are often diagnosed at a later stage. That’s why it’s important to self-examine your body every month.

Less common than melanoma of the skin, melanomas can also develop in other parts of the body such as inside of the eye (ocular melanoma).

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Cutaneous (Skin) Melanoma Types

There are four main types of cutaneous (skin-related) melanoma, plus other, less common subtypes that are not skin-related. The four cutaneous melanoma types are distinguished by their appearance, location and growth patterns. They are:

  • Superficial spreading melanoma
  • Acral lentiginous melanoma
  • Lentigo maligna
  • Nodular melanoma
Bright red melanoma with rough edges

Superficial Spreading Melanoma

Superficial spreading melanoma is the most common type of melanoma. It travels along the top layer of skin for a long time before going deeper. It can be found almost anywhere on the body, but is more common on areas exposed to more ultraviolet (UV) light, from either the sun or an artificial source, like a tanning bed.

The first sign is a flat or slightly raised, discolored patch with irregular borders. The color varies and might include areas of tan, brown, black, red, blue or white.

Black acral melanoma on the ball of a foot with rough edges

Acral Lentiginous Melanoma

Acral lentiginous melanoma (sometimes simply called acral melanoma) spreads near the surface of the skin before growing deeper. Unlike other types of melanoma, it is not related to UV light exposure and is usually found under the nails, on the palms of the hands or on the soles of the feet. Overall, acral lentiginous melanoma is the least common type of melanoma, but it’s the most common type in people with darker skin.

Acral melanoma usually has a black or brownish color.

Lentigo melanoma on a cheek, dark brown with irregular edges

Lentigo Maligna

Lentigo maligna stays close to the skin’s surface for a long time. This type of melanoma is more often found in older people on skin that has been chronically exposed to and damaged by the sun.

Lentigo maligna usually appears as a flat or mildly elevated mottled tan, brown or dark brown color.

On a shoulder, a raised black round nodule

Nodular Melanoma

Nodular melanoma grows into the skin (dermis) more quickly than other types of melanoma do.

Nodular melanoma looks and feels like a firm bump. It is often black, but occasionally blue, gray, white, brown, tan, red or it can be the same color as a person’s usual skin tone.

Other Types of Cutaneous (Skin) Melanoma

Amelanotic Melanoma

Amelanotic melanoma is rare and different from other types of melanoma because it doesn’t produce melanin, which is the dark pigment that gives moles and spots on the skin their dark color. It can develop anywhere on the body.

Desmoplastic Melanoma

Desmoplastic melanoma is rare, making up about 1.7% of all melanomas. It is most common on the head and neck. Approximately half of desmoplastic melanomas are amelanotic (meaning without melanin) so they often appear pink, red, skin-colored or light brown.

Subungual Melanoma

Subungual melanoma is a rare type of skin cancer that grows under the nails. Because of this, it is also commonly known as nail melanoma. Nail melanoma appears as a dark stripe, streak or spot on a fingernail or toenail. Melanoma under a toenail or fingernail may spread if not treated promptly. Foot melanoma, especially around the nail bed or sole, can be harder to notice but carries the same risks as melanoma anywhere else on the body.

Non-Cutaneous (Non-Skin) Melanoma Types

Ocular Melanoma

Ocular melanoma is a melanoma that grows in and around the eyes. It develops in the cells that produce pigment (the substance that gives color to your eyes). Ocular melanoma may cause changes in vision, flashes of light or a dark spot on the iris. However, it can also develop without symptoms and be detected during an eye exam. Learn about proton therapy for ocular melanoma at Fred Hutch .

Mucosal Melanoma

Mucosal melanoma forms in the mucous membranes lining areas such as the mouth, nasal passages, throat or in the genital tract. This type of melanoma is rare, but it can be aggressive. Symptoms of mucosal melanoma include a persistent lump, sore or area of discoloration that does not heal.

Melanoma Types FAQ

Superficial spreading melanoma is the most common type. About 70% of all melanomas are superficial spreading melanoma.

While skin melanoma is more common, melanoma can also form in other parts of your body. For instance, ocular melanoma is eye cancer and mucosal melanomas are cancer in the nose, mouth, throat genital or anal area.